Team Cole Team Page

2017 Stepping Out Long Island NY (Tri-State Chapter)

Team Cole

Thank you for visiting my team page for the Step Out to Cure Scleroderma Yearly Walk.

In August 2008, I was diagnosed with Scleroderma, although I was misdiagnosed with Lupus from December 2007. Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a rare chronic connective tissue disease generally classified as one of the autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The word “scleroderma” comes from two Greek words: “sclero” meaning hard, and “derma” meaning skin. Hardening of the skin is one of the most visible manifestations of the disease and it can cause damage to internal organs including the lungs, heart, kidneys, esophagus and gastrointestinal tract.

Along with Scleroderma came severe Calcinosis of my hands and ears, Sclerodactyly (contractures of my fingers), Esophageal Dysmotility, Muscle Weakness, Loss of Joint Range of Motion and Raynaud's disease. Doctors are keeping a close eye on me with frequent tests since I have early stages of Pulmonary Hypertension.

This is my second walk for Scleroderma and I hope to continue this feat for years to come . I plan to be more involved with funding research until a cure is found. I humbly ask that you join me in supporting the cause to finding a cure for Scleroderma. If you are able to walk, please join Team Cole by clicking "Join Team Cole". If you are unable to attend this event, any donation is welcome by clicking "Support Team Cole." Together we can make a difference! Many thanks for your support…..and please share this with anyone who you think might want to help!!

To learn more about the Scleroderma Foundation, please visit www.scleroderma.org today!